News from Andrew 4

We received Andrew's fourth letter on Friday and here are some excerpts:

"Well, the mail has been parceled out and taps sounded. I lay in my bed and read my mail. Welcome news from home. I am doing well. We did very little of importance the last couple days: folding shirts over and over again and getting ready for inspection. Today we went to Classifications. Basically it's where they fill you in on the details after boot camp. The sad news is: I will most likely NOT be going to "A" school in Pensacola but staying right here in Great Lakes. I am a little bummed about that." " Today we went to the USS Marlinespike. A small-scale replica built inside a building. There we worked on our Basic Seamanship, casting, mooring, etc. I was a line captain whose job it is to give out instructions and watch for every ones well being." "I can't believe it's September already. The last couple days
have been very crisp, breezy days with clear skies and a warm sun. A very welcome treat compared to being indoors in a cement block room with 86 other guys. We had practice inspections this morning (the only thing worse than a real inspection) and then had PT (B.A.S.E.S.) this afternoon. Then we went to drill practice for graduation. We are improving. Our first show will be in two weeks." " It was funny. Tonight, while we were studying, I all of a sudden had a hankering for berry pies and Chex mix. I'm drooling just thinking of it. I told you in the previous section that I will most likely be staying here in Great Lakes for school. I hope there are some kind of cooking and baking utilities so that I can turn some goodies out come the frigid Great Lakes winter." "Say hi to all at North Chittenden."

Thanks to all for sending letters and praying. Andrew's mom